A diagnosis of cancer can be devastating for anyone at any age. So imagine if your diagnosis were intended for someone else.

The know error® system uses DNA (obtained by gently scraping the inside of the patient’s cheek with a cotton swab) to ensure the accurate diagnosis of cancer biopsies. Bridgeport Hospital physicians and surgeons are using the process to verify the results of prostate cancer biopsies and breast cancer biopsies.

This extra step is an important safety measure for patients who are recommended for surgery, as it prevents surgeons from operating on the wrong patient.

Now that I’m using this system with my patients, it’s difficult to imagine initiating surgery, including mastectomy, without the added security of the DNA match.

As a community urologist using the know error® system for five years, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of this technology. Approximately one in 100 prostate cancer patients nationally are misidentified, potentially leading to over- or under-treatment. The know error® system is an excellent safeguard against a misdiagnosis. The ability to alleviate any doubts about the accuracy of the biopsy allows me to focus on determining the best treatment plan for each patient. In my opinion, the know error® system should be the standard of care for all prostate biopsies and indeed for any biopsy where a malignancy is suspected.

Did You Know…?

The Norma F. Pfriem Breast Care Center offices in Bridgeport, Fairfield and Trumbull conduct genetic risk assessments for mutation of the BRCA1 and BRAC2 genes. Mutation of these genes has been linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Genetic counseling may be recommended before and after the tests. For more information, please call Sally Cascella, MAHSM, BSN, RN, CNOR, at 203-255-5300.